Renter-Friendly Decorating Ideas

Want to make your rental feel more like home? There are lots of ways you can decorate your rental property without losing your deposit, and our guide is here to help you make smart decorating choices. Whether you’re looking for renter-friendly panelling ideas for a bold transformation or the best renter-friendly paint colours to refresh the space, we’ve compiled our top decorating ideas to inspire you. 

While renting can bring some restrictions, you can still decorate the space to make it feel uniquely yours. Before you make any significant changes, like painting, wallpapering or adding panelling, get your landlord’s approval in writing. Knowing the rules will spare you any awkward conversations later or money coming off your deposit when you move out. 

Once you know what’s possible, follow these steps to make your rental feel like home.  

Although landlords should complete any repairs between tenants, start by checking the walls for holes or cracks where artwork and mirrors have previously been hung. Use Polyfilla, then sand the surface for a smooth, paint-ready finish (tenancy agreement permitting). 

A fresh coat of paint can make all the difference to a rental. Whether you’re adding personality to the space with a bold colour or creating a blank canvas for bright accessories, there are plenty of options in our range of interior paint. Light colours are easier for your landlord to paint over after you move out and will make the space feel bright and airy. We recommend shades like Fine Cream and Jasmine White for a neutral base in any room.  

Can’t decide on a hue for your home? Download the Dulux Visualiser app and choose your colour with confidence today. It couldn’t be easier to use – upload a picture of the room you want to decorate, select a couple of colours and watch them transform your space. 

 It’s not just the four walls that can be transformed with a lick of paint. You could upcycle tired furniture to bring colour and texture to the space while adding a modern touch to older, unloved pieces. 

Your tenancy agreement might not allow any redecorating. In that case, it’s time to get creative.

For a budget-friendly option that adds instant personality, paint your own canvas using any half-empty tins from other projects. Go abstract with artistic drips and splashes, or opt for geometric shapes. 

Alternatively, paint photo frames to add personality and colour to your space, especially if your rental has white or neutral walls.  For renter-friendly painting hanging, use self-adhesive strips rather than nails, as they’re a damage-free option.

Vinyl worktop wraps are one of the best kitchen makeover ideas that won’t break the bank. Plus, they’re easy to remove at the end of your tenancy without damaging the surface underneath. They’re budget-friendly, and you can choose from various designs, including marble, terrazzo and wood-effect. 

Similarly, you can freshen up your kitchen splashback with self-adhesive tiles in eye-catching colours and prints. Not only will this protect the walls from splashes when 

To make your bathroom makeover renter-friendly and add interest to the design, use self-adhesive tiles in the area around the sink, shower enclosure or bath. Tie in your chosen tiles with your bathroom paint colours and soft furnishings, like towels, bath mats and shower curtains.

For more affordable design inspiration perfect for tenants or home renovators, check out these budget-friendly living room makeovers.